PLA June 2016 by Our City Media

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Ready for Spring? Asthma Season is Approaching Asthma affects 22 million Americans. Anyone can develop asthma, and it may occur at any age. However, people with a family history of asthma are at Frank Eidelman, MD increased risk, as well as individuals with allergies. With spring bringing allergy season, those afflicted with asthma may suffer increased symptoms, including; chest tightness, difficulty breathing, frequent coughing, shortness of breath and wheezing. According to Frank Eidelman, MD, Cleveland Clinic Florida allergy and immunologist, “Not every person with asthma experiences symptoms in the same way, and you may have different symptoms at different times.” Asthma is a problem in the airways. “Inflammation is the main cause for the

airways of a person with asthma to become very sensitive, and as a result react to “triggers.” Contact with these triggers brings on asthma symptoms,” states Dr. Eidelman. An important part of asthma control is avoiding common triggers, such as; viral infections, allergens (dust mites, pollens, pets, mold spores, etc.), tobacco smoke, air pollution and changes in weather. Asthma can be controlled, but not cured. Having frequent symptoms or difficulty completing tasks is not normal, and Dr. Eidelman urges “good asthma control will stop these symptoms and end visits to the emergency room.” In addition to avoiding triggers, properly using medication prescribed by your doctor is critical for good asthma control. There are two main types of asthma medications; anti-inflammatories, which should be taken on a regular basis, as they reduce swelling and mucus production in the airways and

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bronchodilators, which should be taken on an as-needed basis, as they relax the muscle bands that tighten around the airways, which improves breathing. Based on the severity of your asthma, an action plan will be developed by your physician. This plan will include use of asthma medications (with a number one goal of reducing inflammation), actions to take when asthma worsens, and when to seek emergency care. By learning to manage your asthma, you take an important step toward living free of symptoms and maintaining a normal, healthy life.

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Summer Sprouts New Changes at Our City Media

ith the school year coming to a close, families everywhere are shifting focus from homework and afterschool activities to summertime fun. The Our City Media family is undergoing a transition of its own. We are proud to introduce Terry Jaillet, who has joined us as co-publisher and the new owner. This is an exciting new era for Our City Media. Terry brings a great deal of enthusiasm and energy to our magazines. In the coming months you may start to notice a few changes, but rest assured you will continue to get the local community news you count on delivered to your door each month and we will still work closely with local businesses to help them reach their valued customers, our faithful readers. As you depart on your summer vacations, please don’t forget to take along your favorite ‘Our City’ magazine to catch up on what’s going on at home. Be sure to take some pictures holding the magazine cover and send them to us for our Photo of the Month contest. We love to see where our magazines will travel this season.

CO-Publishers . . . . . . . . . . . . . Terry Jaillet, SVEN BUDZISCH Managing Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jill Sharpe sales manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nancy Koval

Mariem Garcia, Marcela Fuxman, Silvia Silva, Karla Iniguez, Jillian Hervish

Account RepResentAtives

Office manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gabriela Moscoso Art Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mike Umlauf Graphic Designers . . . . . . . . . . . Jacqueline Allard, Grace Umlauf Web Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mike Umlauf

Visit us online: www.OurCityPlantation.com

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Ph: 954-306-1007 • Fax 954-306-1008

PS: Don’t forget to wish dad a Happy Father’s Day this month!

editorplantation@ourcitymedia.com • graphics@ourcitymedia.com Our City Media of Florida, LLC publishes FREE monthly, local community news magazines covering Weston, Davie/SW Ranches/Cooper City, Aventura, Plantation, Pembroke Pines, Miramar and Hollywood & Hallandale. Total circulation is 20,000+ per edition or a total of 140,000+ copies per month. Our City Magazines are direct mailed monthly to affluent single-family homes, condos and businesses in their respective communities covering all of Southwest Broward County. Monthly mailings are verifiable by USPS statements available at www.OurCityMedia.com. Additional free copies are available at selected locations throughout their respective communities and upon request by contacting this news magazine. Opinions expressed by the writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Our City Media of Florida, LLC reserves the right to edit and/or reject any editorial or advertising content. Our City Media of Florida, LLC is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space or for the validity of claims made by advertisers. Entire contents copyrighted 2016 by Our City Media of Florida, LLC. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without prior written permission from the publisher.

Sincerely,

Sven Budzisch and Terry Jaillet Co-Publishers

Contents

12 Plantation Relay for Life Event Raises More Than $200,000

school news 14 Students Display Talents at Annual No Texting and Driving Video Awards 14 Toyota Expands National Family Learning Program to Two Sites in Sunrise 16 Two South Plantation High Students Win Journalism Fellowships 16 Plantation Students Win Regional National Science Bowl Competition 18 Firewall Serve-A-Thon Has Big Impact in Plantation and Sunrise 18 South Plantation High School Advances to the Final Round of XQ: The Super School Project

LEGALLY SPEAKING calendar 6

June 2016

community news 8

Plantation Woman’s Club Honors its “Women of the Year”

10 JAFCO Announces Formation of 13th Chapter 10 Aging and Disability Resource Center Salutes Outstanding Advocates 12 The Community, a Corporate Sponsor and a Sports Team Join Together to Make a Difference on World Autism Day in Sunrise

June 2016 | OUR CITY PLANTATION

20 Alimony Reform? Not This Year!

Ask the expert 21 The Difference Between a Bank Loan and a Credit Union Loan

Message from the fire chief

phot0 of the month 23 The World’s Favorite Newspaper™

22 Stay Safe This Summer

pet of the month 22 “Patches”

seen on scene 24 Community Snapshots

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OUR CITY PLANTATION | June 2016

calendar June 2016

10th & 11th Used Book Fair – Helen B. Hoffman Library, 501 N. Fig Tree Lane, Plantation. 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. on Friday and 9:00 - 4:00 p.m. on Saturday. Book Lovers - Don’t Miss this! New releases, textbooks, magazines and DVD’s. Donations always accepted. For more information call 954-797-2140.

14th Teen Summer Kickoff! Movie and Book Swap – 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Ages 12-18. Join your friends as we start the summer with a great movie. Combined with our popular Book Swap (bring a book/swap a book)..it’s a perfect summer start. Refreshments provided. Raffle prizes. West Regional Library, 8601 Broward Blvd. Plantation. Call 954-765-1585

eventbrite.com/e/zumba-wednesdaysCooking With Chef Alex – 11:00 tickets-20437434918. For more a.m. - 12:30 p.m., ages 12-18. Chef Alex information call 954-473-8101. returns with more tips & recipes to create something delicious. Required Plantation Junior Women’s Club registration begins on June 11th. West – Meetings are at 7:15 p.m. the 3rd Regional Library, 8601 W. Broward Blvd. Wednesday of every month at Deicke Plantation. Call 954-765-1585 for more Auditorium. Call 954-797-9762 for more information. information or visit pjwcfl.org

18th Bucky & Gigi: Nerd Clowns – Join in for laughter & fun. All ages. 11:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m. West Regional Library, 8601 W. Broward Blvd. Plantation. Call 954765-1585 for more information.

18th & 25th 11th Craftland Extravaganza – Crafts, music, summer sign-ups & raffles. All ages. 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. West Regional Library, 8601 W. Broward Blvd. Plantation. Call 954-765-1585 for more information.

Chess Club – A chance for casual practice or play. Raffle prize. Ages 5-18. 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., West Regional Library, 8601 W. Broward Blvd. Plantation. Call 954-765-1585 for more information.

13th Jr. Lifeguard Course – Plantation Aquatic Complex will conduct the American Red Cross Jr. Lifeguard Course Monday-Friday, June 13th - 17th from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. each day. The course teaches lifesaving and leadership skills, as well as fitness and water safety, for participants ages 11- 14. Cost of the course is $105 for Plantation residents and $130 for all others.

25th & 26th Amateur Radio Field Day – Markham Park, 16001 W. State Rd. 84, Sunrise during daylight hours. The public is invited to see local amateur radio operators (a/k/a “hams”) demonstrate their emergency communication skills as they operate portable stations in the park without using commercial electrical power. Visitors can expect demonstrations of various aspects of amateur radio, including “Get-On-TheAir” stations that will allow the general public to make radio contacts around the world. For more information call 305-962-2401.

28th 21st Middle School Book Club – Ages 11-14 or entering grades 6, 7 or 8. 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Read and discuss! Refreshments served. Pick up the book from the Youth Services desk. Registration is required. West Regional Library, 8601 Broward Blvd. Plantation. Call 954-765-1585.

24th & 25th

BookChat! – 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. ages 14-18, or entering High School. Read & discuss! Refreshments served. Pick up book from the Youth Services desk. Required registration. West Regional Library, 8601 W. Broward Blvd. Plantation. Call 954-765-1585 for more information.

Ongoing

Used Book Fair – Helen B. Hoffman Library, 501 N. Fig Tree Lane, Plantation. 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. on Friday and 9:00 - 4:00 p.m. on Saturday. Book Lovers - Don’t Miss this! New releases, textbooks, magazines and DVD’s. Donations always accepted. For more information call 954-797-2140.

25th Tween Book Club – Book discussion, craft and treats. Ages 8-12, 6:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. Preregistration required. West Regional Library, 8601 Broward Blvd. Plantation. Call 954-765-1585

Free Zumba Classes at the Mall – Westfield Broward is not only for shopping, dining and socializing but Suzy Hammer as Sporty Sue – also for fitness and exercise. The mall Interactive Storytelling Magic Show. is now offering free Zumba classes Ages 4-8. 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. West Regional Library, 8601 W. Broward Blvd. every Wednesday from 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. in the Macy’s Court. Be sure to Plantation. Call 954-765-1585 for more RSVP as space is limited: https://www. information.

June 2016 | OUR CITY PLANTATION

Family Game Nights – 3rd Friday of every month, 6:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m., Plantation Community Church fellowship hall, 6701 W. Broward Blvd., Board games, ping pong, Foosball, pizza and fun. Families or unaccompanied youth 15 and older are invited. $3 per person, maximum $10 per family covers the cost of pizza. Bring your own drinks and games. For more information call 954-797-7769.

GFWC Plantation Woman’s Club – 2nd Tuesday of the month, 10:00 a.m. Deicke Auditorium, 5701 Cypress Road, Plantation. For more information contact Darlene at 954-295-0754 or e-mail davrealtor@comcast.net. Night Division of GFWC Plantation Woman’s Club – 4th Tuesday of each month, 7:00 p.m., Deicke Auditorium, 5701 Cypress Road, Plantation. For more information contact Darlene at 954-295-0754 or e-mail davrealtor@ comcast.net. GFWC Junior Woman’s Club of Plantation – 4th Tuesday of each month, 7:00 p.m., Deicke Auditorium, 5701 Cypress Road, Plantation. For more information contact Amanda at 954-240-6044 or e-mail aflutie@aol.com. Rotary Club – Meets every Tuesday at Noon at Jacaranda Country Club. For more information call 954-577-8881 or visit www.rotary.org. Yoga With Melanie – Gentle mat class, 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. every Wednesday. Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El, 8200 Peters Road, Plantation. Cost: $5, temple members; $10 non-members. Call 954-472-1988 for more information.

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Plantation Woman’s Club Honors its “Women of the Year” SECTION HEAD community news

BY JILL SHARPE

en women who help make community service thrive in Plantation were recently honored for their philanthropic efforts. The GFWC Plantation Woman’s Club recently hosted their 42nd annual Woman of the Year luncheon to recognize the women for their work in the community. The nominees were selected from each of the ten service clubs in Plantation. The event was held at the Jacaranda Country Club and drew more than 125 honorees, club members and family members. Each volunteer demonstrated her dedication to the community through a variety of projects including the arts, education, fund raising, beautification projects, preservation of local heritage and support of their club’s goals and activities,” said Darlene Vlazny, President of the Plantation Woman’s Club. The Women of the Year honorees were Dana Warder, Bayberry Garden Circle; Catherine Dolgin, Friends of the Helen B. Hoffman Plantation Library; Valeria Harris, Friends of the West Regional Library; Katie Dzoba, GRWC Junior Woman’s Club

of Plantation; Pat Hinde, GRWC Plantation Woman’s Club; Amy Rielly, Plantation Acres Woman’s Club; Sandy Griffin, Plantation Art Guild; Jan Kolenda, Plantation Garden Club; Laura Kinsman, Plantation Historical Society and Murphy Leopold, Plantation Junior Woman’s Club.

During the ceremony Gloria Merritt, read the achievements and accomplishments of each winner. President Darlene Vlazny presented each honoree with a beautiful Rose Quartz necklace, a framed Certificate of Achievement, and copy of her club biography compliments of the GFWC Plantation Woman’s Club. Mayor Diane Veltri Bendekovic presented each woman with a ‘Key to the City’ charm. Started in 1949, The Plantation Woman’s club is the oldest civic organization in the City of Plantation. Their mission is to foster a spirit of friendly goodwill among the women of Plantation in forwarding the charitable, educational and civic improvement of the community, country and world. For more on the club, visit http:// www.plantationwomansclubgfwc.com

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JAFCO Announces Formation of 13th Chapter SECTION HEAD community news

BY JILL SHARPE

ewish Adoption and Family Care Options (JAFCO) is pleased to announce the formation of its thirteenth chapter, the new Boynton Beach Chapter. The Chapter will serve residents of northern Palm Beach County who are passionate about raising awareness and funds for abused and neglected children and those with developmental disabilities. Located in Sunrise, the JAFCO Children’s Village is a beautiful 5.6-acre residential facility including a 24-hour emergency children’s shelter and six group homes that provide a safe and loving home for up to 52 children from newborns up to 21 years of age. JAFCO also has a foster care, adoption and family preservation program and all programs are open to children and families in the tri-county area. In 2014, JAFCO expanded its mission with the opening of the Children’s Ability Center in Sunrise, a full- service center that offers family enrichment, resources and extended day and overnight respite care to children ages birth to 22 from the tri county area with developmental disabilities (autism, spina bifida, cerebral palsy and intellectual disabilities). The only center of its kind in the country, the Ability Center supports not only the child but the entire family. Wendy Gallit and David Epstein will serve as the new president and vice president of the Boynton Beach Chapter, but there is nothing new about this dedicated duo’s love for the children of JAFCO. For the past 15 years they have been planning and chairing countless events to share the organization’s mission with the residents of Valencia Isles and now hope to spread the mission of JAFCO to all of the other Boynton communities.

“Wendy and Dave have done an amazing job introducing their community to JAFCO and we could not ask for more passionate leaders,” said Elise Repath, past president of the South Palm Beach Chapter of JAFCO. “Leading a chapter is a labor of love and a 24-hour job and we are so thankful to both of them,” added Repath. This past year Wendy and Dave have planned a number of events including luncheons, card parties and game days. A highlight of the year was an amazing benefit concert featuring the Gary Kneppler and the Now ‘n’ Then Orchestra and a Sinatra tribute with artist Irwin Gordon and vocalist Jenna Paige Gagliardo, who all donated their talents to the event. More than 250 people attended the concert and raised $6,400 which was sponsored by Mel Kantor and his wife Carol, who also performed a beautiful solo. “This year was great, and next year we will grow bigger and better,” said Gallit. “There is no other agency in the entire country like JAFCO where you can see clearly that your money is going right to help the children. We are honored to accept the leadership of this chapter and invite everyone in the Boynton community to help us support the children by attending events and working on our committees to become part of the JAFCO Family,” added Chapter Vice President Dave Epstein. For more information about JAFCO, please visit www.jafco.org or contact JAFCO Director of Development Operations, Shelli Gold at 954-315-8671 or shelli@jafco.org

Aging and Disability Resource Center Salutes Outstanding Advocates BY JILL SHARPE

n Friday, May 6th ten outstanding men and women were honored by induc- League, Ceasar knows that diversity is the key to a communities strength, fighting for the civil rights of others. As a long time member of the Civil Rights Committee tion into the Broward Senior Hall of Fame. Over 350 community advocates, of the Anti-Defamation League, Ceasar elected and appointed offiwas always in the fight. He served on the cials joined the Aging and Disability Judicial Nominating Commission, recomResource Center in celebrating the mending individuals for Judgeships and achievements of the group whose he served on the Board of Governors exceptional local volunteer efforts of the Shepard Broad Law Center for merited their selection for the unique approximately 20 years. Ceasar was recrecognition. ognized by that institution on their Wall of Broward Mayor Marty Kiar joined Distinction for community activity. Master of Ceremonies, Joel Fass, Esq. Additionally, he played a vital role and Aging and Disability Resource in the formation of two Bar Associations, Center Executive Director, Edith which are still in operation after more Lederberg, in welcoming the new than thirty years. Ceasar also served as Hall of Famers whose names are Treasurer and Chairman of the Sawgrass inscribed on a commemorative plaque Expressway Authority. This independent which hangs in the Broward County body has the distinction of completion six Government Building. months early and millions of dollars under The new electees include: Sandra The new Hall of Fame electees posed for a commemorative photo: seated budget. K. Booth, Lauderdale-By-The Sea; (from l): Sandra K. Booth; Commissioner Sue Gunzburger; Edith Lederberg, Many know Mitch Ceasar as the long Mitchell “Mitch” Ceasar, Plantation; Executive Director, Aging and Disability Resource Center; Patti Lynn; and Marie Goodrum Johnson; Standing (l): Joel Fass; Mohsin Jaffer, MD; Mitchell time Chairman of the Broward Democratic Commissioner Sue Gunzburger, “Mitch” Ceasar; George A. Kling, MD; Arlene Lakin, Esq.; Judge Ronald J. Party. He also has served as Florida Hollywood; Mohsin Jaffer, MD, Weston; Rothschild; Jack Shifrel; and Broward County’s Mayor Martin Kiar. Democratic Chairman and currently Marie Goodrum Johnson, Pompano serves on the Board of Directors of the national party. Ceasar held open forums on Beach; George A. Kling, MD, Wilton Manors; Arlene Lakin, Ft. Lauderdale; Patti the most difficult issues of the day, in order to bring the community together. Lynn, Tamarac; Judge Ronald J. Rothschild, Hollywood; and Jack Shifrel, Coconut “For his dedication to progress in the community, trying to make a better Creek. Broward, Ceasar most certainly deserves this honor as do all those recognized in Plantation resident Mitch Ceasar has been immersed in everything Broward, the 2016 Senior Hall of Fame,” said Lederberger. with a commitment spanning more than 40 years. A past Director of the Urban

June 2016 | OUR CITY PLANTATION

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The Community, a Corporate Sponsor and a Sports Team Join Together to Make a Difference on World Autism Day in Sunrise BY JILL SHARPE

outh Florida Ford partnered with the Florida Panthers and Autism Speaks for a night of fun dedicated to families who have children on the autism spectrum at the Panthers game in Sunrise on Saturday, April 2nd in honor of World Autism Day. At the game, Allan Young, Chairman of South Florida Ford, had the honor of joining Jonathan Brown, a local youth with autism who was an honoree Panther for a Day, in participating in the (L-R) Allan Young, Stanley C. Panther, (L-R) Julie Salas, Albert Lopez, Alexandra (L-R) John Viola, John Victor E. Rat and Manny Villamanan Lopez, Manny Villamanan and Allan Young Brown and Allan Young opening puck drop. Attendees were given the opportunity to experience the hard-hitting, fast-paced thrills of NHL hockey. Several families in the autism community were provided with a designated suite, as well as a sensory room for the children to enjoy before and after the game. Following the game, several Panthers players visited the sensory room to sign autographs and take pictures with the families. The entire night’s game presentation educated the public on autism and the community’s efforts to raise funds for Autism Speaks’ local programs. South Florida Ford also presented a $10,000 check to Autism Speaks (L-R) Alex Petrovic, Denise (L-R) Panther Player Vincent Manny Villamanan, Panther Player from the #Ford4Autism Twitter and Hashtag promotion from 2015. Negron and Allan Young Trocheck and Allan Young Steven Kampfer and Allan Young At the game, guests were encouraged to take a picture of themselves and upload it on to their Instagram and twitter cause,” said Allan Young, Chairman of South Florida Ford. “Autism Speaks is accounts using the hashtag #FORD4AUTISM. Each time they did South Florida an organization that is very near and dear to us and we always look forward to Ford donated $5 to Autism Speaks. opportunities like these, when we can spend time with children and their families “South Florida Ford is thrilled to continue our partnership with the Florida and create great memories while continuing to raise awareness for Autism.” Panthers and to align the two organizations together to support this amazing

Plantation Relay for Life Event Raises More Than $200,000 BY JILL SHARPE

rea residents that have been touched by cancer gathered in Central Park on April 15-16 for the Annual Relay for Life of Plantation. Sixty-one teams camped out for the 16-hour event in hopes that in the future no one will ever have to hear the dreaded words, “You have cancer.” “It is a privilege to be part of this event which raises awareness and money for such a worthy cause,” said Event Lead Cindy Gress. “This year, even with a thunderstorm hanging over our heads for most of the day on Friday, we still had nearly 2000 people in attendance (and only a very quick shower). The event started with an opening ceremony and a celebratory Survivors Lap and included the always touching Luminaria Ceremony where candles are lit in honor and memory of locals who have battled cancer. Other activities included a cupcake eating relay race, a lip sync battle, a scavenger hunt, and a road to recovery car show. “We also had a kiddie area with bounce houses, face painting, and a Home Depot craft project, said Gress. The top five teams raised over $70,000. They were St. Benedict Episcopal Church, Seminole Middle School NJHS, Central Park Elementary, National Jets and AmOne Fighters. Organizers are already looking for people who want to get involved in the 2017 Relay for Life. For information send an email to cindygress@ comcast.net.

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OUR CITY PLANTATION | June 2016

Students Display Talents at Annual No Texting and Driving Video Awards

SECTION news school HEAD

BY JILL SHARPE

Students: Christopher Beytia, Larissa Martins, Sofia Plaz igh School students recently exhibited their video production talents at the ▸▸ 3rd Place Winner: Chaminade-Madonna College Prep Third Annual Take 5 to Stay Alive, Don’t Text and Drive Video Awards. Joseph Catalano (Teacher) Adam “AJ” Students throughout Jancosko-Student Broward County were asked to ▸▸ 4th Place Winner: Piper High School produce their best video interpretaJovan Conde (Teacher) tion of the program theme, Take 5 to Students: Ernesto Velasquez, Sam Miller, Stay Alive, Don’t Text and Drive, in a Brianna Thompson, Anu Ramdhas, 15 to 30 second video Public Service Stephanie Ruby Announcement. ▸▸ 5th Place Winner: Atlantic Technical “The Florida Department of High School Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Kathy Kelly (Teacher) reported that, of the 3,762 distracted Students: Alexia Dixon, Julianne driving crashes in Broward County Edwards, Sandy Legis, Sydney Tulloch in 2015, 1,944 resulted in injuries and eight resulted in fatalities,” said Cash prizes were awarded to the Commissioner LaMarca. winning artists. The sponsoring schools The purpose of the contest is to also received cash prizes earmarked to encourage young drivers not to text upgrade their video production equipand drive. ment. All prizes were donated by corporate This year’s awards ceremony sponsors. was held at the Sunrise Civic Center Speakers at the event included Major Take 5 4th Place Winners from Piper High School on Wednesday, April 6th. Top five Robert Chandler of the Florida Highway winners were selected by a panel of judges who rated the submissions based Patrol, Sunrise Assistant Deputy Major Kerch, School Board member Laurie Richupon creativity, quality, and best representation of the program theme. There were Levinson, Heather Geronemous from Mothers Against Drunk Driving, and Will 52 submissions from 11 different schools. Alitier of the Dori Saves Lives Foundation. The 2016 Winners were: The Take 5 to Stay Alive contest is made possible through a partnership ▸▸ 1st Place: Pembroke Pines Charter High School with Broward County, Broward County Public Schools BECON-TV and Driver’s Students: Matthew D. Fernandez, Omar Loutfi, Christina Feliciano, Samuel Education Program, Broward Health, Broward Regional EMS Council, Memorial Eliacin, Genesis Vesco Healthcare System, and Sunrise Fire Rescue. ▸▸ 2nd Place Winner: Cypress Bay High School

Toyota Expands National Family Learning Program to Two Sites in Sunrise BY JILL SHARPE

he National Center for Families Learning (NCFL), in partnership with Toyota and Broward County Public Schools (BCPS), recently unveiled a unique family learning program. This innovative, two-generation model called Toyota Family Learning is a solution to the educational challenges facing low-income and diverse families. BCPS received a three-year, $175,000 grant from Toyota and NCFL to launch the program. Nearly 100 parents and children are enrolled in Toyota Family Learning at three BCPS sites including the New River Annex and the Village Multi-Purpose Center in Sunrise. The program empowers parents and caregivers, as well as their children, to become engaged in their schools and communities. It also leverages technology as parents and children learn together and serve their communities through NCFL’s Family Service Learning approach, Parent and Child Together (PACT) Time® and family-to-family mentoring. The Toyota Family Learning initiative expands and supports the existing BCPS family literacy programs. For Fernando Rapa and his wife Maria Palomera, Toyota Family Learning represents an opportunity to help ensure a successful future for their four-year-old daughter. After moving from Venezuela last fall, Palomera and daughter, Maya, are both attending school and learning English at the Village Multi-Purpose Center. “We joined because we want to learn with our daughter in a fun and engaging way,” said Palomera. “We want her to do well in school when she begins kindergarten; to be motivated and excited about learning. We are proud of the values we’re instilling in Maya, and believe this program is building a foundation that will help her succeed.” Broward County is the 14th community to become part of Toyota Family Learning. One other organization will be unveiled this year. In total, Toyota has committed $10 million over a six-year period for this national education initiative. “Toyota Family Learning has allowed us to grow and enrich our current Family Literacy program for our parents and students,” said Carletha Shaw, principal,

June 2016 | OUR CITY PLANTATION

Community School South. “The parents are being given the tools necessary to participate as full partners in their children’s education, get better jobs and be more engaged in their own neighborhoods.” Parents and their children spend more than four hours a week learning together in this free program. In addition to gaining skills to help their children succeed in and outside the classroom, parents also build important technology, language literacy and job skills. Research shows that strong family support helps children succeed in school. “When parents are engaged in their children’s learning, our students, schools, District and communities all benefit,” said Superintendent Robert W. Runcie. “Through Toyota Family Learning, we are expanding our District’s high-quality family literacy programs with new educational experiences that extend beyond traditional classroom walls.” “Toyota Family Learning bridges the gap between classroom and lifelong learning,” said Sharon Darling, president and founder, NCFL. “The impact on these families and the community will be seen and felt for decades.”

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Two South Plantation High Students Win Journalism Fellowships

SECTION news school HEAD

BY JILL SHARPE

rianna Horland and Bayleigh Pearson from South Plantation High have earned $600 Culpepper Journalism Foundation fellowships to attend summer journalism programs at universities. Both students are on the Sword and Shield newspaper staff at the school. Horland will travel to Stanford’s Brianna Horland (California) Newsroom By the Bay program while Pearson will attend the University of Florida’s CJC (College of Journalism and Communications) Summer Institute. As part of the CJF fellowship program, the rising seniors are required to return to the school to teach their newspaper staffers what they experienced during the college program. In the fall, Horland will be Editor in Chief of the Sword and Shield. “I hope to Bayleigh Pearson breathe new life into my school newspaper,” she said. “When the quality of the paper declined, it forced me to find my voice in order to fight for articles or design choices that I believed improved the publication.” At the recent Sun-Sentinel High School Awards, she won First Place for her Sports Column and the school paper took 12 other awards including Most Improved. “Mentorship is extremely important to me,” Horland added. “Therefore I would like my legacy to be that I put good practices in place, developing a knowledgeable and capable staff who will continue to take the paper to new heights after I graduate.”

Bayleigh Pearson was involved in broadcasting at her former school where she was enrolled in two media courses that demanded weekly video productions and a professional-style documentary. As next year’s News Editor, she said at the summer program she hopes to learn more about print media, journalistic ethics, interviewing techniques and how to handle deadlines. “I want to come back refreshed, knowledgeable and even more passionate about the art of journalism, and recognize my full potential as a journalist, whether it is print or digital media.” She currently is working to add a podcast/ blogging addition to the school’s online newspaper. Pearson wants to provide a voice for students who are often forgotten in their school. In a special one-on-one interview she conducted with a student with Bayleigh Pearson and Brianna Horland Downs Syndrome she discovered that the research she did prior to the interview helped her write non-intrusive but wellconstructed questions that did not offend the student but provided great answers. “From that experience I learned that in order to stand out as a journalist, a lot of specific research is needed,” Pearson said. Over the last 18 years the Culpepper Journalism Foundation has assisted 80 students from 20 different Broward County public schools who wanted to continue their journalism work during the summer. For more information contact the CJF at CulpepperJF@aol.com or visit the CJF website at www.CulpepperJournalismFoundation. Weebly.com. The Broward Education Foundation, an arm of the School Board of Broward County, Florida, manages the CJF funds.

Plantation Students Win Regional National Science Bowl Competition BY JILL SHARPE

he Science Bowl team from American Heritage High School in Plantation won the regional competition for the 2016 National Science Bowl (NSB) advancing to compete at the National Finals in Washington D.C. in April. Although the team was not as successful in D.C., winning the regional competition is a feat to be very proud of. The NSB brings together thousands of middle and high school students from across the country to compete in a fast-paced question-andanswer format where they solve technical problems and answer questions on a range of science disciplines including biolTeam A competitors from the left are: ogy, chemistry, Earth and Saaketh Vadeantam, Jacob Carbone, Jared Lassner, Jared Shulkin and Christopher Hermens. space science, physics and math. “The National Science Bowl is one of the premier academic competitions across the country, and prepares America’s students for future successes in some of the world’s fastest growing fields in research and engineering,” said U.S. Energy Secretary Moniz. “These top students in math and science are to be congratulated.” More than 250,000 students have participated in the National Science Bowl® in its 25-year history, and it is one of the nation’s largest science competitions. More than 14,000 students compete in the NSB each year. The Regional Tournament was held at the University of Miami this year with 24 teams competing. The competition was a double elimination style tournament. The

June 2016 | OUR CITY PLANTATION

teams consist of four players with one alternate who can be inserted into the game during the half. Students ask questions ranging from astrophysics to organic chemistry and everything in between as it relates to science and math. “Our teams came in 1st place and 2nd place,” said Osmel Rodriguez, Science Bowl advisor from American Heritage. “The A team won the tournament, while not losing a single game and our B team took second with its only loses coming to our A team.” The A team was comprised of Jared Shulkin (12th grade and team captain), Jacob Carbone (12th grade), Jared Lassner Team B competitors from the left are: Sriraj Atluri, (12th grade), Christopher Maxwell Gu, Aaron Ben-Shalom, Tyger Lin and Jed Casauay. Hermens (11th grade) and Saaketh Vedantam (9th grade). The B team was comprised of Aaron Ben-Shalom (12th grade and team captain), Maxwell Gu (11th grade), Tyger Lin (11th grade), Sriraj Atluri (10th grade), and Jed Casauay (11th grade). “The secret to our success is really the drive and love that the students have for Science Bowl,” said Rodriguez. “They love the competition and gaining knowledge. They are constantly reading articles and textbooks. Our practices are always well attended and lively, filled with laughter and good natured ribbing. The students really enjoy being around each other and pushing their limits. There is also a selflessness that allows them to avoid hurt feelings and egos.”

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OUR CITY PLANTATION | June 2016

Firewall Serve-A-Thon Has Big Impact in Plantation and Sunrise

SECTION news school HEAD

BY JILL SHARPE

n Saturday, April 30th Firewall Centers hosted its third annual Serve-AThon, presented by Regent Bank, a hands-on opportunity for students to learn the value of giving back while making a lasting difference in their neighborhoods. More than 400 Firewall Centers’ students, their mentors, staff and volunteers engaged in service projects throughout Broward County. Firewall Centers is a nonprofit organization that runs daily after-school programs in eight Broward public middle and high schools including Plantation Middle and Bair Middle in Sunrise. The program helps kids achieve success, build character and teaches them to be servant leaders. “It was a pleasure for Regent Bank to sponsor the Serve-A-Thon again this year,” said Giselle Baytona, vice president/commercial loan officer of Regent Bank and a Firewall Centers’ board member. “What a privilege to see 400 kids and volunteers serving our community. These kids are the future of our country; it is so important to teach them how to serve others in order to become great leaders.” Students started early in the morning with a breakfast donated by Walmart. Firewall students from Plantation Middle along with students from Blanche Ely High and Pompano Middle served at Fort Lauderdale’s Snyder Park mulching trails, painting picnic tables and restoring the butterfly garden. A group from Bair Middle in Sunrise and Lauderhill 6-12 STEM-MED sorted and packaged meals for the hungry at Feeding South Florida in Pembroke Park. “The students were very enthusiastic. You could just see them in the future as outstanding adults by the way they served now as children,” said Pat Colangelo, Director of Community Engagement and Associate Director of Operations for Trinity International University Florida. Firewall was established in 2003 in response to the death of a thirteen year old girl who overdosed on drugs while left unsupervised during after-school hours. Ever since, the agency has been operating daily after-school tutoring and mentoring centers for at-risk students that instill character values and promote academic success, supporting them as they strive toward their greatest potential. For the 2015/2016 school year, Firewall’s T.H.I.N.K. (Take charge, Have a plan, Involve the right people, Never quit, Keep giving back) Leadership program is serving

Charleson Macxeus, Firewall Plantation Middle School student

400 Broward county students. The program’s overarching objective is to improve performance outcomes among at-risk students as related to their school attendance, behavior, and course performance, thus helping them to ultimately achieve self-sufficiency as they pursue their life goals. You can learn more about Firewall Centers and how you can get involved at www.firewallcenters.org or follow them at www.facebook.com/firewallcenters

South Plantation High School Advances to the Final Round of XQ: The Super School Project BY JILL SHARPE

n Friday, April 8, 2016, South Plantation High School advanced to the final competition round of XQ: The Super School Project. This new educational challenge from the XQ Institute, with philanthropist Laurene Powell Jobs, received more than 700 applications from 45 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. More than 10,000 people participated in teams to submit the online application. Five institutions will receive a collective $50 million to change education for high school students in America.

“The Super School Project is an opportunity for our District to rethink the entire high school experience and receive feedback directly from our students and the community,” said Broward County Public Schools Superintendent Robert W. Runcie. “We are proud of the South Plantation High team for their hard work, innovative thinking and advancing to the final round.” The Super South Plantation Pathways of Learning Project focuses on high-quality, projectbased learning with real-world applications. The project proposal discusses an array of educational concepts such as: ▸▸ Collaborating virtually with students in classrooms around the globe ▸▸ Experiencing flipped and blended learning paired with internships ▸▸ Understanding environmentally-conscious principles ▸▸ Experiencing field trips with hands-on activities to analyze environments ▸▸ Participating as lead-learners and advisors ▸▸ Comprehending the sustainability of food through health and nutrition programs ▸▸ Reimagining the classroom with students moving around and interacting within the classroom, instead of sitting in a seat. Winners of the XQ Super School Project will be announced in August 2016.

The Super School Project Student team at South Plantation High School.

June 2016 | OUR CITY PLANTATION

Students hard at work on their project proposal.

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Alimony Reform? Not This Year! By Evan Baron

ntil approximately one week ago, I was expecting to write this month’s article on the changes in Family Law that would be taking effect as of October 1, 2016. For the second time in four years, the Florida Legislature had passed a bill which would have modified the current alimony laws in this state; and for the second time in four years Governor Scott has vetoed the bill. The result is that everything remains the same and the proposed laws that were passed by the legislature are forgotten, at least until 2017; when they reconvene. The reason the Governor gave for vetoing the alimony reform bill four years ago was due to the fact that it contained a retroactive clause. This would have allowed individuals, who were either ordered to pay or agreed to pay permanent alimony, to go back into court and seek either a termination or reduction based upon the change in the law. The Governor indicated that if in fact that provision was removed in the future he would in fact pass an alimony reform bill. This year, the retroactive provision was in fact removed, but the legislature added a time sharing provision, which would have resulted in an equal time sharing presumption when there are minor children involved. Currently, there is no such presumption, although it is very common that Mothers and Fathers do have equal time sharing with minor children. In spite of what many individuals believe because of their independent research on the internet, there is no such equal time sharing presumption in Florida today. Each case is considered independently and the Court is to consider the best interests of the children. In exercising his veto power, Governor Scott indicated that he felt the equal time sharing provision did not protect the interests of the children. Obviously, the issue of alimony reform is controversial. Individuals who are not directly involved in an alimony case may not have an opinion about this matter. Those that are receiving permanent alimony or may potentially fall within those who might be required to pay such alimony if divorced may see it differently than those who are receiving or might receive permanent alimony. Those within the legal community are themselves divided as to whether alimony reform is a positive or a negative. I can only advise a client as to what the current law is and not what it may be or should be. As I stated before, every case is different and it is difficult to structure a law which applies to all situations. The one issue which I thought would be beneficial to prospective clients was a formula to calculate the amount of alimony to be paid or received. Currently, there is no alimony guideline in Florida and therefore it is sometimes difficult to advise someone how much alimony may be involved in a particular case. I suspect that this issue will be raised again next year by the legislature, as it seems that some type of reform is inevitable. The law firm of Evan H. Baron and Associates is located at 1655 North Commerce Parkway, Suite 201, in Weston. If you have any questions concerning this issue or any other family law matter, call the office at 954-385-9160.

June 2016 | OUR CITY PLANTATION

The Difference Between a Bank Loan and a Credit Union Loan BY NANCY RAPPAPORT, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF PRIORITYONE CREDIT UNION OF FLORIDA

What are some of the advantages of getting a loan through a credit union?

▸▸ Competitive interest rates-Lower loan rates mean lower monthly payments and less interest paid over the term of the loan ▸▸ Convenience-Apply online, in person or over the phone ▸▸ Fast loan approvals-Local underwriting and processing of loans ▸▸ Common sense approach-You are not just a credit score ▸▸ Flexible loan terms ▸▸ Lower processing fees than banks ▸▸ Excellent member service Many credit unions offer a free auto buying/leasing service to their members.

This free service allows credit union members to shop for their dream car without visiting a car dealership! All the hassle and some of the fees are eliminated! It’s simple... you get pre-approved for the auto loan at your credit union, let the car buying/leasing service know exactly what you are looking for, then just sit back and relax. You are in good hands while the service finds the auto for you, negotiate the best deal and deliver it to you at your convenience.

Ask the expert

tart your day strong with a delicious cup of fresh brewed coffee and some credit union facts.... Since 1844, credit unions have been known for their great savings and now free checking accounts. However, did you know they offer an array of competitive loan products as well? Whether for a car, a mortgage or a home remodel, personal loan or a credit card, chances are you’ll be shopping for a loan at some point. It can be overwhelming. However, knowing the advantages of a credit union loan verses a bank loan can help you make the right decision. If you’ve never used a credit union, you may think they’re the same as banks...not so! Credit unions are not-for-profit cooperatives owned by their members. Profits are distributed to members instead of shareholders. This fact makes all the difference...profits are returned to the members in the form of competitive interest rates on depository accounts and loans.

Can I refinance my car loan at a credit union?

Yes, credit unions offer competitive rates, flexible refinancing terms and low processing fees. Refinancing your existing auto loan at a credit union can possibly save you thousands of dollars over the life of the loan. Whatever your reason, your local Credit Union has money to lend and a helping hand to make your dreams come true!! For more information about credit unions please call us at 954335-5100; visit our website at www.priorityonefl.org or stop by one of our branches conveniently located in Sunrise, at 3000 North University Drive; in Fort Lauderdale, at 1900 West Oakland Park Boulevard; or Coral Springs at 1700 North University Drive; Suite 100.

Turn Your Home into a Power

Renovation. Education. Consolidation. A PriorityONE home equity line of credit gives you the power to do it all.

Tool!

Power up with this special offer: • NO closing costs* • Incredibly LOW rates • FAST closings You’ve got the power to apply for a home equity line of credit your way: • Log on to www.priorityonefl.org – or – • Call 954-335-5100 – or – • Stop by any of our offices Sunrise 3000 N. University Drive Coral Springs 1700 N. University Drive, Suite 100 (next to Chili’s) Ft. Lauderdale 1900 W. Oakland Park Blvd. (in the Post Office building) *Includes drive-by appraisal fee of up to $300 which will be reimbursed at closing. If Home Equity Line of Credit is paid in full and closed before 24 months, member will refund all closing costs paid by PriorityONE.

Federally insured by NCUA OUR CITY PLANTATION | June 2016

“Patches”

BY THOMAS DIVERNARDO, SUNRISE FIRE CHIEF

he air is warm and the days are long. Beat the heat and stay safe this summer with these tips from Sunrise Fire-Rescue: Hurricane season starts June 1. Don’t wait for the first storm to appear before getting ready. Now is the time to discuss your plan with every member of your household, prepare your supplies, and safeguard your home. Hurricane kits should include essentials - nonperishable food, water, and medical supplies - to last three to five days after a storm. A full list of suggested supplies is available on the Fire-Rescue Department of Emergency Management and Hurricane Preparedness page on the on the City of Sunrise website: www.sunrisefl.gov. While South Florida’s lucky streak without a recent hurricane may or may not continue, we definitely still will see frequent thunderstorms. Florida is the lightning capital of the country, with 39 people injured and 5 killed by lightning strikes in 2015, according to the National Weather Service. Even indirect strikes can cause cardiac arrhythmias and seizures in victims. Don’t risk it – “when thunder roars, go indoors”. If you can see lightning or hear thunder, immediately seek shelter inside a building or vehicle. Stay away from large trees and open bodies of water. Once indoors, avoid corded phones, computers, sinks, showers, and windows.

The warm summer months create concerns beyond just storms. Heatrelated illnesses pose a serious threat –especially for small children, older adults, and pets. Hot cars are especially dangerous. If the air conditioner is off, even with the windows partially open, temperatures inside at car can increase by 20 degrees in just 10 minutes. “Never leave a child or your pet unattended inside a vehicle,” said Sunrise Fire Chief Thomas DiBernardo. ▸▸ Anyone can be overcome by the heat if unprepared. Take basic precautions to prevent dehydration, heat-stroke and sunburn: ▸▸ Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. ▸▸ Drink plenty of water throughout the day. ▸▸ Avoid beverages with alcohol or caffeine, which are dehydrating. ▸▸ Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, as well as physical barriers such as a hat and sunglasses. Lastly, as people seek relief from the heat in pools and at the beach, remember that water safety is everyone’s responsibility. Always provide dedicated adult supervision wherever children may have access to water, and use multiple layers of protection such as swimming lessons, door locks & alarms, pool fencing, and CPR lessons. A wealth of water safety resources is available at www.watersmartbroward.org. For more information, visit our webpage on www.sunrisefl. gov, ‘Like’ us on Facebook at Sunrise-Rescue, and follow us on Twitter @SunriseFRD.

pet of the month

Message from the fire chief

Stay Safe This Summer

Patches is a six-year-old Shih Tzu. He loves everyone but his favorite person is his daddy. Patches enjoys playing fetch, belly rubs, long walks and taking naps. His favorite toys are his stuffed Haagen dogz, pup-tarts and starpups. Patches was last seen taking a nap on the sofa with the sun beaming down on him.

TOYS LABS CAMPS PARTIES ROBOTICS Summer STEM Programs:

Camps: Science & Art, Lego Robotics, Mini Robotics, Lego Animation, Math & Science Workshops: 3-D Printing, Math Readiness (H.S.), Minecraft Code, App Creator, Robotics, and much more...

2110 North Flamingo Road

Pembroke Pines · 954.239.8252 www.iknowscience.com info@iknowscience.com 22

June 2016 | OUR CITY PLANTATION

We Want Your Photo! Take your latest copy of Our City Plantation on the road with you and you could be our lucky winner. Send us your “The World’s Favorite Newspaper™” photo and you could win a gift certificate to a local restaurant. Happy trails!

Email photos to: editorplantation@ourcitymedia.com Please send hi-resolution original digital photos as attachments only. Include name, address, phone number and where photo was taken.

Sunrise resident Averil Shankland recently visited New York with her four grandchildren who live in Plantation. Here are her grandchildren Ryan, Ian, Katie and Jessica Hall sitting next to Theodore Roosevelt holding Our City Plantation at the American Museum of Natural History.

phot0 of SECTION the month HEAD

The World’s Favorite Newspaper™

Got News? email editorplantation@ourcitymedia.com

OUR CITY PLANTATION | June 2016

BUSY SENIORS

seen on scene

Seniors at the Daniel D. Cantor Senior Center in Sunrise play dominoes, bridge and tend to the vegetables in the Center garden.

FARMER’S MARKET

AMLI Sawgrass Village hosted a Health and Wellness Farmer’s Market extravaganza in celebration of Earth Month. The event featured handcrafted goods with local flavors, music, crafts, fresh produce and more.

NEW PASTOR

Our Savior Lutheran Church recently installed Mark Abram as their new Pastor at a worship service attended by several guest pastors, members and visitors from the community, and members from his former church in The Villages, Florida.

HIGH SCHOOL JOURNALISM AWARDS

South Plantation High School’s newspaper staff were awarded big time at the recent SunSentinel High School Journalism Awards. The Sword & Shield staff received 12 awards including Most Improved High School Newspaper.

A DONATION OF 300 SCHOOL BACKPACKS

AWARD WINNING PERFORMERS

Taylor Sawyer, Priscilla Manning and Chloe Stewart at Tinsel Town 2016

June 2016 | OUR CITY PLANTATION

Mission United Veterans and their children were gifted with a generous donation of more than 300 backpacks filled with school supplies from Cathy and James Donnelly and the rest of the staff of the Castle Group. The backpacks were given to the children of veterans that Mission United works with at the Castle Group’s company picnic on April 30th.

The future is here... x The ONLY 5-STAR range in all of South Florida x Featuring the NEXUS LANES live-fire computerized targets. Shoot

your gun and ammo at moving targets, shooting galleries, videos and more.

x First time shooter, female, and family FRIENDLY. x COOL and CLEAN air-conditioned range. x Thousands of firearms, ammo, accessories, and RENTAL guns. x LADIES DAY: every Monday ladies get free range time.

liFetime membership

$10 OFF ConCealed Weapons permit Class

Coupon Required. Good for up to 4 people. Cannot be combined w/other offers. exp. 06/30/16. Please see website for rental & range restrictions. No gun rentals by solitary shooters. www.NexusShooting.com

Coupon Required. Good for up to 4 people. Cannot be combined w/other offers. exp. 06/30/16. Please see website for rental & range restrictions. www.NexusShooting.com

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First time shooter paCkage

Includes membership, 1 hr range use, eye & ear protection, 50 rds 9mm ammo, 9mm gun rental, 1 target. Coupon required. $10 extra for electronic Nexus Lanes. Exp. 06/30/16. Please see website for rental & range restrictions. No gun rentals by solitary shooters. www.NexusShooting.com oCnsp

954-587-8005 | 2600 Davie Rd, Davie, FL 33314 | www.NexusShooting.com

Krama Yoga Institute provides guests with an enjoyable and unforgettable yoga experience. Whether you are a beginner or advanced, the state-of-the-art studio has over 10 different styles of Yoga for you to choose from. Some classes such as Therapeutic Yoga, Hatha Yoga, or Restorative Yoga are great for beginners that have little to no yoga experi-

ence or have prior injuries and other classes such as Hot yoga, Vinyasa yoga, or Martial Krama Yoga are great for students that are physically active or have prior yoga experience. Which ever level you fall into our pool of experienced instructors are here to cater your individual needs and leave you with a “healthy body quiet mind”.

New StudeNt Special offer! STop bY foR a dRop in claSS ($18) and ReceiVe oNe free moNth of uNlimited yoga 12900 West state Road 84 | davie FL 33325

305-853-6681 | 786-238-6043 info@kramayogainstitute.com

kRamayogainstitute.com

balanceyour life. OUR CITY PLANTATION | June 2016

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1960 N. commerce pkwy., Suite 3 weStoN, FL 33326

954.306.1007

poStmaSter pLeaSe DeLiVer iN home aS SooN aS poSSibLe.

prSrt StD uS poStaGe

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www.OurCityPlantation.com

jackSoNViLLe, FL permit #1646

postal customer

1960 N. Commerce Pkwy., Suite. 3, Weston, FL 33326

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